Are Laminate Floors Waterproof? Exploring Facts and Best Uses

Laminate flooring options are rising in popularity – and for good reason. So now, homeowners are wondering: is this material waterproof? In this blog, we’ll break down the ins and outs of waterproof laminate flooring, best uses, and installation. 

What Are Laminate Floors? 

Laminate floors are a synthetic floor product designed to mimic different materials. They can resemble hardwood, stone, or tiles. Laminate flooring comes in different densities and materials to suit a homeowner’s needs. 

Still, not all laminate flooring is created equally. 

Is Laminate Flooring Waterproof? 

Traditional laminate floors are not inherently waterproof. In fact, if exposed to excess moisture, traditional laminate floors can be damaged. 

However, new developments have expanded the number of waterproof laminate flooring options. Waterproof laminate flooring is now available and is designed specifically to withstand high volumes of water and moisture. 

What Are the Best Uses for Waterproof Laminate Floors? 

Waterproof laminate floors are a great choice for any room that is prone to a lot of moisture. 

It combines both durability and longevity with the same aesthetic appeal other laminate flooring options come with. For instance, homeowners can mimic the look of a hardwood floor without worrying about any risk of water damage that would typically lead to wood rot, warping, and mold. 

Here are some of the rooms best-suited to laminate floors: 

• Bathrooms 
• Kitchens 
• Laundry rooms 
• Basements 
• Mudrooms 
• Entryways or foyers 

Waterproof laminate floors are also a great option for homes with pets or young children. They are designed to make cleanup easy and can come with features like anti-slip coatings. 

Installation: DIY or Hire a Pro?

It may be tempting to pursue new flooring as a DIY project — some flooring companies even encourage it with simple click-and-lock products. 

But waterproof flooring installation is not a good DIY project. There are precautions and techniques involved to make sure a floor retains its water resistance over time. A professional will be able to:

• ensure your new floor has tight seams and proper seals around the edges.
• evaluate your home’s existing subfloors.
• take proper care to address any underlying issues.

You can always ask friends or family for contractor recommendations or do research online. Make sure you get three to four quotes to find the best price for your project.

If you don’t want to do the legwork yourself, Modernize can put you in touch with up to four licensed flooring contractors in your area. The right professional should be able to provide additional insight into which flooring is best for your home’s needs and help you move your renovation project from discussion to reality. You can get started by clicking below.